Florence in Winter – Traveling in Italy’s Off Season:

Thinking of visiting Florence in winter? You’re in luck—we think it’s one of the best times of year to come! (Really!) Here are a few reasons why you’ll like Florence in the off season… as well as some other things to keep in mind about visiting Florence in the winter months.

During Florence in winter, you’ll encounter plenty of holiday shoppers – and street decorations – along Via del Corso and other central Florentine neighborhoods.

Firstly : When is the off season?

The off-season generally runs from November through Easter, excluding the busy holiday periods of Christmas and New Year’s.

During this time, the city is much quieter, with fewer tourists crowding the main attractions, museums, and popular squares. While some smaller shops or seasonal restaurants may have limited hours, visiting Florence in the off-season offers a more relaxed experience, shorter lines at major sites like the Uffizi or Duomo, and often lower prices for accommodation. It’s an ideal time for travelers who want to enjoy the city’s art, history, and cuisine without the summer crowds.

The breathtaking view of Florence’s terracotta rooftops and surrounding hills from the dome’s summit.

Things to enjoy during winter in Florence

Fewer tourists, shorter lines

Florence is a small city that gets big tourist crowds. In the off season, this doesn’t go away entirely (it never can!), but it does lessen a lot. You might not have Michelangelo’s David to yourself, for example, but you might be sharing him with only one or two dozen other people instead of hundreds.

With fewer crowds, you can enjoy the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia, and Palazzo Pitti at a more relaxed pace, taking the time to appreciate masterpieces without feeling rushed. Shorter lines mean skip-the-line tours are even more enjoyable, letting you focus on the art rather than waiting outside.

Iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria are just as stunning in the winter light, and the cooler weather makes walking between them comfortable.

There will be far fewer crowds at local museums during the off season.

The Festive Florentine Feeling

Visiting Florence around Christmas is a treat not just for the eyes, but for the senses.

It’s the perfect time to linger over a glass of wine in a cozy enoteca, that´s the Italian name for a wine repository or shop, watching well-dressed Florentines go about their day.

The city streets come alive and sparkle as the city celebrates their Festival of lights, which is usually from around the second week in December until the second week in January. The aroma of roasted chestnuts also fills the air, and locals bustle about, shopping for the holidays.

Christmas markets begin to pop up in piazzas, offering seasonal treats, handmade gifts, and a distinctly festive atmosphere. These usually include:

• Mercatino di Natale in Piazza Santa Croce: This is Florence’s largest Christmas market, featuring a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, decorations, and delicious food. It typically runs from late November to late December.
• Florence Noel: Located in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, this market offers handmade crafts, decorations, and live entertainment.
• Fierucola dell’Immacolata: Held in early December , this market celebrates rural craftsmanship and sustainable products in Piazza Santissima Annunziata.
• Mercato Tedesco di Natale: A German-style Christmas market that adds a festive atmosphere to the city, often found in Piazza Santa Croce.

Winter in Florence comes with perks—including, in December, Christmas markets!

The Fresh Florence Temperatures

Just remember that the weather can be chilly. November is the rainiest month of the year for Florence, which tends to get about 4-5 inches of rain that month—an amount comparable to New York City, but, believe it or not, twice as much as the average for London. (Really!).

The coldest month is January, which averages between 34°-50°F. Still, compared to many other parts of the world, it’s still relatively mild, and despite the cooler temperatures and rain, the sky is usually still blue.

In winter, sights like Florence’s Duomo are far less crowded

Fashionable Florence in Winter

Bring layers if you want to “fit in” with the fashionable Florentines, or at least not look like a first-time tourist!

Remember the winter dress code: leather shoes for men and boots for women, wool button-up coats, leather gloves, and, of course, a stylish, warm scarf (for men too!) and most importantly, don´t forget your sunglasses!

Other than that, simply enjoy. This a fantastic time of year to enjoy the fashionable city of Florence!

FAQ´s – Florence in Winter

Does it snow in Florence during winter?

Snow is rare in Florence, but it can happen occasionally between December and February. When it does snow, the city takes on a magical atmosphere, with the red-tiled roofs of the historic center dusted in white. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible icy spots on cobblestone streets.

How many hours of daylight are there in winter?

Florence experiences shorter days during winter, with daylight typically from 8am to 5:00pm in December. January and February gradually get longer, giving you slightly more time to explore outdoors. Planning indoor visits in the late afternoon can help you make the most of the daylight hours.

Do opening hours for museums and attractions change in winter?

Yes, some museums, gardens, and smaller attractions reduce their hours in the off-season. Major sites like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia, and Duomo usually stay open year-round, but it’s always wise to check their official websites before visiting. Guided tours may also have limited schedules during winter.

Are public transport and other services affected in winter?

Public transport in Florence runs year-round, but some ferry, bus, or guided tour options may operate on a reduced schedule. Taxis and rideshare services remain available, but pre-booking can be helpful during busy holiday periods like Christmas and New Year’s

If you’re visiting Florence in the off-season, don´t worry, you will not miss the chance to explore the city’s highlights with a guided tour.  You can warm up on the “Best of Florence Walking Tour with David & the Duomo”, where you can see Michelangelo’s David and the Duomo while learning fascinating stories from a local guide.

Or for a truly exclusive experience, try the “VIP David & Duomo Tour” which includes early-access to the Accademia Gallery and a climb up the Duomo to the hidden terrace. This is the perfect place to enjoy vistas of the city and the winter landscape of Tuscany that lies beyond.